How to change your iPhone passcode

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

To change your iPhone passcode, navigate to Settings Face ID & Passcode (or Touch ID & Passcode) and select 'Change Passcode'. Enter your current passcode, then follow the prompts to set a new one. This process helps secure your device from unauthorized access.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before changing your iPhone passcode, ensure you meet the following requirements:
  • •An iPhone running iOS 12 or later.
  • •Access to the device with the current passcode.
  • •Sufficient battery life or connected to a power source.
  • •Backup your data via iCloud or iTunes in case of any issues.

Method 1: Change Passcode via Settings

This is the primary method for changing your passcode directly through the iPhone's settings. Use this method when you have access to your current passcode.
  • •Step 1: Open the 'Settings' app on your iPhone.
  • •Step 2: Scroll down and tap on 'Face ID & Passcode' (or 'Touch ID & Passcode' on older models).
  • •Step 3: Enter your current passcode when prompted.
  • •Step 4: Tap on 'Change Passcode'.
  • •Step 5: Enter your current passcode again, then enter your new passcode.
  • •Step 6: Re-enter your new passcode to confirm.
  • •Step 7: A message will appear confirming the passcode has been changed.

For iOS 15 and later

In iOS 15, the interface may have slight changes, but the steps remain largely the same.
  • •Step 1: Open 'Settings'.
  • •Step 2: Tap 'Face ID & Passcode'.
  • •Step 3: Follow the same steps as above to change your passcode.

For iOS 14 and earlier

The process is similar, but the layout may differ slightly.
  • •Step 1: Open 'Settings'.
  • •Step 2: Tap 'Touch ID & Passcode'.
  • •Step 3: Follow the same steps as above.

Method 2: Change Passcode via Recovery Mode

Use this method if you have forgotten your passcode and cannot access your device. This will erase your device and its passcode.
  • •Step 1: Connect your iPhone to a computer with iTunes (or Finder on macOS Catalina and later).
  • •Step 2: Put your iPhone into Recovery Mode. For iPhone 8 and later, quickly press and release the Volume Up button, then the Volume Down button, and then press and hold the Side button until you see the recovery mode screen.
  • •Step 3: On your computer, a prompt will appear. Choose 'Restore'. This will erase your device and its passcode.
  • •Step 4: After the process completes, set up your iPhone as new or restore from a backup.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while changing your passcode, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'Passcode not accepted' - Solution: Ensure you are entering the correct current passcode. If forgotten, use Recovery Mode.
  • •Issue: 'Unable to change passcode' - Fix: Restart your iPhone and try again. Ensure your iPhone is updated to the latest iOS version.
  • •Problem: 'Forgotten passcode' - Workaround: Use Recovery Mode to erase your device and set it up as new.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your iPhone security with these tips:
  • •Use a longer alphanumeric passcode for better security.
  • •Enable 'Erase Data' in Settings > Face ID & Passcode to erase your device after 10 failed passcode attempts.
  • •Consider using Face ID or Touch ID for quicker access while maintaining security.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

Regularly updating your passcode and using biometric security can significantly enhance your device's protection.